An East London college has been given three weeks to settle its debts with the taxman after arguing students’ careers were “at risk”.
Bliss Services UK – which runs Bliss College, in Ilford, – maintained it had reduced the money owed to HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) by some £100,000.
Counsel for the college – who caused a stir in the High Court for not appearing properly robed – insisted:
“The original claim was for £270,000, it has been reduced and we need time – up to April 23 – for negotiations.
“This is a college for students from abroad and their careers are at risk.”
Mr Registrar Nicholls said: “You say it want it adjourned for negotiations.
“This last came before the court on November 28, the debt has been reduced, it will be adjourned until March 12 marked final settlement.
“And can I remind counsel to be properly robed.”
Counsel for HMRC agreed the claim had been reduced and now stood at some £176,000.
The college offers courses in business studies, tourism and hotel management, information technology and health and social care which are targeted at overseas students.
According to its website the institution’s objective is to be recognised as the leading management college in the United Kingdom.
The latest accounts filed in December 2009 until February this year show the company’s turnover stood at £272,065.
The company – which was established in 2003 – also made a post-tax profit of £11,296.
By Andy Pearce
Subscribe to Insolvency Today